In the last part of the finale, two chefs are surprised by an early morning hot air balloon ride over the city of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, as a final moment of calm before the last Eliminatio...

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Season 12 Episode 21

In the last part of the finale, two chefs are surprised by an early morning hot air balloon ride over the city of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, as a final moment of calm before the last Elimination Challenge. For their ultimate showdown, the final two must create the most outstanding four-course menu of their lives. Each chef takes a different menu approach, but they both face cooking missteps and nerves along the way. The chef who overcomes the pressure and serves the most inspired dishes will win the grand prize: a feature in FOOD & WINE Magazine, an appearance at the FOOD & WINE Classic in Aspen, $125,000 furnished by Healthy Choice, and the title of Top Chef. Joining the panel are guest judges Hugh Acheson, Richard Blais, and acclaimed chefs Traci Des Jardins, Sean Brock, Michael Cimarusti, Gavin Kaysen, and Donnie Masterton.